Linking family theory and practice: a family nursing program

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Family Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Family nursing is integral to patient care but nurses often lack specific skills for psychosocial support.
• Increased attention on family nursing highlights the need for structured educational and clinical programs.
• Tertiary care settings present unique challenges and opportunities for implementing family nursing interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a family nursing program in a large tertiary care facility.
• To provide nurses with enhanced skills for addressing the psychosocial needs of families experiencing illness.
• To evaluate the impact of the family nursing program on clinical practice and nurse job satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Program development involving interdisciplinary collaboration and needs assessment.
• Implementation of the family nursing program within a tertiary care setting.
• Ongoing evaluation of program outcomes, including effects on nursing practice and job satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Early outcomes indicate a positive influence on day-to-day nursing practice.
• The program aims to improve nurses' confidence and competence in family-centered care.
• Potential for improved job satisfaction among nursing staff participating in the program.

Conclusions:

• The developed family nursing program positively impacts nursing practice in a tertiary care setting.
• Further evaluation is needed to confirm the long-term effects on job satisfaction and patient/family outcomes.
• Investing in family nursing programs is crucial for enhancing holistic patient and family care.